Explainer-How could the oil spill off the UAE coast affect desalination plants?

An oil spill off the UAE coast has raised concerns about environmental contamination and potential impact on desalination plants, which supply over 80% of the country's potable water. The spill is from the crude oil tanker Gem No.2, struck by an unidentified projectile. Authorities have closed beaches as a precaution.

Desalination plants in the UAE are at risk, with the Naqa'a plant's seawater intake potentially threatened by the leak. Water experts say assessing the impact is difficult without more information on the spill's extent. No plant shutdowns have been announced so far, despite the oil slick reaching 2 km away from the Naqa'a plant.

The extent of the damage depends on the type and volume of oil, according to Simon Boxall, a senior lecturer at the University of Southampton. Crude oil breaks down in warm waters within weeks, but a thicker spill can cause more damage. Experts emphasize the need for multiple layers of protection to prevent damage to desalination plants.